High TDS results in undesirable taste which could be salty, bitter, or metallic. It could also indicate the presence of toxic minerals. The EPA's recommended maximum level of TDS in water is 500mg/L (500ppm)
TDS is acronym is for Total Dissolved Solids
PPM is acronym for Parts Per Million
EC is acronym for Electrical Conductivity
The instructions that arrive with this meter are vague. The enclosed case for the meter is handy for protecting the meter when not in use.
I did not realize the battery was not installed and there was nothing on the meter or the instructions to indicate where the battery was housed. Typically products shipped with a battery have a tabbed protective plastic liner inserted to prevent the battery making contact until the liner is pulled away. I took off the caps on both ends of the meter and couldn't figure out where the removable tab for the battery was supposed to be.
The instructions did not indicate where the battery was installed. Removing the top I could see a tiny piece of metal and what looked like the skinny end of an electronic board. Finally I found the battery jammed in the bottom of the black case housing the meter and a tiny piece of paper with vague instructions. I was relieved to find it stuck down there. Now I had to figure out how and where to install it through trial and error. I delicately inserted it next to the metal tab and the meter didn't work, I tried it the other way and it did finally work. I was worried about accidentally touching the electronic board or breaking the meter.
I have included a picture that shows the battery installed in the top of the meter.
So yes, the battery is included look for it jammed in the bottom of the case.
From other websites featuring similar meters, I found out the bottom cap is for storage and protection only, not to be used for scooping out water to test. For best results, use a large clean cup so there is a larger volume of water that will be tested.
Turn the meter on.
Remove the cap from the bottom of the meter. Swirl the bottom inch of the meter in the water. Do not let water get above the cap line. The numbers will run up and down, when they stop, hit the hold button so the number will remain constant while you find a place to write this down.
To ensure a long lifespan of your product, the TDS/EC sensors should be stored dry. Remove battery if you use the meter infrequently. (This is true for any battery operated product.) You can install the battery again when you are ready to use it. It will fit in the bottom of the enclosed case as I found out.
Total dissolved solids (TDS) are the total weight of all solids (minerals, salts or metals) that are dissolved in a given volume of water expressed in milligrams per liter (mg/L), or in parts per million (PPM). The lower the TDS level in the water, the more efficiently your body's cells actually get hydrated by the water that you drink. The higher the TDS levels in the water, the greater the probability of harmful contaminants that can pose health risks or hinder the absorption of water molecules on the cellular level. 17 PPM of TDS = 1 grain of hardness.
You will have to do your own research further to decide what the numbers mean for your particular use whether it is testing your drinking water or aquarium or hydroponic garden etc.
Great Water Quality Meter but the included instructions about use, safety, storage and battery location could be drastically improved.
Boboai Digital Aid Professional Quality Water Test Meter. TDS, EC and Temperature Meter. 0-9990ppm. Accurate and Reliable Water Test Meter. Ideal For Drinking Water, Aquariums, Ponds.
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